Meteorological Technician Job

Become a Guardian of the Mountains: U.S. Forest Service Seeks Meteorological Technicians

Are you drawn to the raw power of nature and possess a keen understanding of atmospheric science? The U.S. Forest Service is offering a compelling opportunity for skilled individuals to serve as Meteorological Technicians, playing a crucial role in ensuring public safety in some of America's most stunning natural landscapes. This temporary position is perfect for those who thrive in challenging environments and are dedicated to providing accurate, life-saving information. If you have a passion for meteorology, a comfort with backcountry travel, and a desire to contribute to a vital mission, this role might be your next calling.

About the U.S. Forest Service

The U.S. Forest Service, an agency of the Department of Agriculture, is entrusted with an immense responsibility: managing and caring for over 193 million acres of the nation's most magnificent forests and grasslands. Their mission extends beyond land management; they also conduct vital research through a network of experiment stations and the Forest Products Laboratory, and provide essential assistance to state and private forestry agencies. A career with the Forest Service means engaging with challenging and rewarding work, contributing to conservation, resource management, and scientific advancement, all while working amidst breathtaking natural beauty. It's a chance to be part of an organization that protects and enhances the natural resources that benefit all Americans.

Job Responsibilities: Forecasting the Elements

As a Meteorological Technician within the Forest Service, you will be at the forefront of providing critical weather and avalanche information. Your primary duty will involve synthesizing data from a multitude of sources to develop and issue accurate avalanche forecasts for the public via the local Avalanche Center. This isn't just about observing; it's about interpreting complex meteorological data, understanding snowpack dynamics, and anticipating potential hazards. You'll be responsible for:

• Issuing Forecasts and Advisories: Developing and disseminating written and verbal avalanche forecasts, as well as emergency advisories, based on rigorous data analysis.
• Data Collection and Interpretation: Observing and recording atmospheric conditions such as air pressure, temperature, humidity, wind, precipitation, and cloud cover. You will analyze this raw data, often in real-time, to inform forecast accuracy.
• Snowpack Analysis: Ensuring regular field snowpack observations are conducted and that appropriate data is collected to inform avalanche forecasts. This requires keen judgment and understanding of field conditions.
• Equipment Maintenance: Inspecting and performing routine, user-level maintenance and services on various weather instruments and equipment.
• Forecasting and Warning: Issuing avalanche warnings when specific criteria are met and terminating them when conditions no longer warrant.
• Data Management: Maintaining automated data on computer systems, including historical mountain weather information, and using these systems for communication and improving forecasting methods.
• Public Education: Providing training and guidance on avalanches and related work, and occasionally conducting educational sessions for schools, professional groups, and the general public.

Requirements: Skills for the Field

To be considered for this critical role, applicants must meet specific eligibility and qualification requirements by the announcement's closing date. These include:

• Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
• Selective Service: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
• Background Check: Subject to a satisfactory background investigation and fingerprint check.
• Direct Deposit: Federal payments are made via direct deposit.
• Age: Must be at least 18 years of age.
• E-Verify: Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check.

Specialized Experience (GS-8 Level):

One year of specialized experience at the GS-7 level is required. This experience must demonstrate:

• Expert backcountry proficiency: Including expert ability to ski and snowmobile in backcountry settings (outside of ski area boundaries).
• Avalanche terrain navigation: Proven ability to effectively and safely travel in and around avalanche terrain.
• Field observation: Capacity to read snowpack, weather, and avalanche trends in a field setting.
• Avalanche rescue: Advanced skills, experience, and confidence in companion avalanche rescue scenarios.
• Forecasting experience: Proven experience forecasting mountain weather and avalanche conditions.
• Research experience: Experience conducting and presenting contemporary snow and avalanche research.

Selective Placement Factor: Applicants must possess the ability to safely and efficiently navigate mountainous terrain in a harsh winter environment using backcountry skis and snowmobiles.

Salary Overview

This position offers an hourly rate of $26.78. It's important to note that this rate reflects the "Rest of the U.S." (RUS) locality pay. Actual pay rates may vary depending on the specific duty location due to locality pay adjustments. For detailed information on pay rates in different regions, please refer to the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) resources.

Benefits

While this is a temporary position, it offers valuable benefits and opportunities:

• Temporary Appointment: Positions are filled for up to 6 months, with a potential for extension up to one year, or may end early due to funding or work-load changes. Extensions are possible without further competition.
• Location Variety: The job is advertised for multiple locations across the United States, offering the chance to work in diverse and scenic environments.
• Professional Development: Gain critical experience in meteorological analysis, avalanche safety, and public communication, which can be invaluable for future career growth.
• Government Benefits: Federal employees are eligible for certain benefits; specific details regarding this temporary role should be clarified during the application process.

Application Process and Tips

Applying for a federal position requires attention to detail. Here’s how to navigate the process:

1. Review Thoroughly: Read the entire job announcement and all instructions on USAJOBS.gov.
2. Online Application: Complete your application and submit all required documents electronically by the closing date (July 14, 2026, 11:59 p.m. ET).
3. Assessment Questionnaire: Answer all questions in the Assessment Questionnaire honestly and accurately, as this is a key part of the evaluation.
4. Resume: Create a resume that is no more than two pages long and clearly highlights your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments. Ensure it details work experience, including schedules, hours, and dates of employment.
5. Required Documents: Upload all necessary documents, such as transcripts (if qualifying by education), in the specified formats (GIF, JPG, JPEG, PNG, RTF, PDF, TXT, DOC, DOCX) and under 5MB. Encrypted documents are not accepted.
6. Hardship Applications: If applying online is a significant hardship, contact the agency contact listed in the announcement well before the closing date to arrange an alternative method.

Key Application Tips:

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize experience directly related to the major duties and selective placement factors.
• Proofread: Ensure your application is free of errors and omissions.
• Check Status: Log in to your USAJOBS account to monitor your application status.
• Be Flexible: Consider selecting "Location Negotiable" if you are open to various duty stations listed.
• Understand Data Sharing: Be aware that your application package may be shared with other Forest Service entities with similar vacancies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: What is the salary for this position? A: The hourly rate is $26.78. Please note that pay rates can vary by specific location due to locality pay adjustments.

• Q: Is this a permanent position? A: No, this is a temporary position. Appointments are for up to 6 months, with a potential for extension up to one year. The appointment may also end early due to lack of funds or work.

• Q: What are the physical requirements for this job? A: A critical requirement is the ability to safely and efficiently navigate mountainous terrain in harsh winter conditions using backcountry skis and snowmobiles. This involves significant physical exertion in challenging environments.

• Q: Do I need a degree in meteorology? A: While a degree in meteorology or a related field can be beneficial, the primary qualification is one year of specialized experience at the GS-7 level, demonstrating specific skills in avalanche forecasting, backcountry travel, and weather interpretation.

• Q: What documentation is absolutely required? A: A resume (max 2 pages) detailing your experience, and transcripts (if using education to qualify) are essential. Other documents may be required based on your specific situation (e.g., veterans' preference documentation).

Serving as a Meteorological Technician with the U.S. Forest Service is more than just a job; it's a commitment to public safety and a chance to work at the intersection of nature and science. If you possess the specialized skills, the adventurous spirit, and the dedication to protect others, this temporary role offers a unique and rewarding experience. Don't miss the opportunity to contribute to the vital mission of the Forest Service and explore the beauty of America's natural landscapes while doing so. Apply today and become an essential part of the team safeguarding our mountain environments.